From The Pastor's Desk – February 2009

This month the leadership of our country is in transition.  Millions of people throughout the world watched and listened as America embraced a new President, new opportunities, and a renewed approach to our present and future challenges.  Part of the inauguration ritual included prayer.  As I listened, I reflected on what my own prayer for the country is at this time.  And, more specifically, what is my prayer as a Christian Citizen and member of The Federated Church and Ashland community.  I share the following prayer with you as we work together to organize and minister this day.  Almighty and Holy God, this day our lives are before you.  Diverse, full of hope and struggle we are, and at times facing unbearable fear and trembling while reaching to hold together the value of human life created in your image.   Equally true of our place in both local and world population, we are in need of daily guidance as we try to take care of one another and the world we inhabit.  Each of us has a unique footprint, heritage, and God-given opportunity, and at this time we pray for your divine help as we live our days on shared soil.  We embrace the challenges to come, but even more we embrace the skill and talent we can gather for the purpose of helping one another and cultivating a world that can serve all people.  For the wisdom of our Lord Jesus and the blessing of eternal care we give thanks to you, our one, true God.  Amen